Letter to the Editor: Coordinators urge community to keep RCMP Centennial Park name

We, the coordinators behind the petition circulating in Oyen requesting that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Centennial Park name remain as is, have decided to write a letter explaining why we are so passionate about the renaming of the park.

Firstly, we want to inform everyone that we wholeheartedly endorse the honouring of individuals who have dedicated their time and efforts to improving our community. However, we are not in favour of replacing the honour bestowed upon a group of individuals who, for over 150 years, have sacrificed to keep our communities safe. Over that period of time, 52 men and women have been killed in the line of duty serving Alberta, or the geographic region which is now Alberta before the formation of the province. That park sign is a small and inadequate gesture of gratitude for the debt we owe to them, their families, and all who serve in maintaining our security.

Too often, we take for granted the sacrifices of others, which is why we have a cenotaph at the Royal Canadian Legion. It is a reminder that we owe a debt. That R.C.M.P. sign is also a reminder of a debt. Both are symbols of gratitude to past, present, and future generations of those who devote themselves to the service of others.

The petition is still open, and if you wish to sign, you may contact Lorraine at lorraine.guckert@gmail.com.

Without prejudice,
Shirley Foot and Lorraine Guckert